Let’s be honest. Foods that are bad for us taste great precisely for that reason. But knowledge is power, and once you learn healthy, savory alternatives for your favorite fried foods and baked goods, your repertoire of wholesome, delicious dishes increases exponentially.
Following are some top foods to try, selected for their versatility, deliciousness, and of course, nutritional value:
Top Food #1: Avocados
Aside from ketchup and salsa, mayonnaise is probably the most popular condiment. Unfortunately, it’s high in saturated fat, and void of nutrition. The next time you garnish that turkey sandwich or burger, replace the mayo with avocado slices. They’re sodium-free, filling, and have an appealing, creamy texture.
Avocados have more potassium than bananas, and their fat content is monounsaturated, the kind which lowers the cholesterol level. Try dicing some for a salad topper!
Top Food #2: Broccoli
There are a million reasons why you should eat more broccoli. The first being, it tastes fantastic. Loaded with Vitamins A and C, this versatile veggie can be steamed, stir-fried, or tossed in a salad. It’s also an excellent source of calcium, potassium, folate and fiber, which makes it a great option for the expecting mom.
Broccoli melts in your mouth with a little garlic (known to prevent heart disease and high blood pressure) and margarine, lemon juice and red onion. Kids love it with low-fat cheddar melted on top!
Top Food #3: Figs
Figs are chewy, sweet, and delicious, straight out of the co-op bag, or in a bar. They’re packed with potassium and fiber, and make a great alternative to high-fat foods like muffins or cookies. One fig has fewer than 50 calories!
Top Food #4: Quinoa
Pronounced KEEN-WA, this tiny little grain is a healthy, tasty alternative to white rice. A half cup has five grams of protein. Try making peppers stuffed with quinoa, black beans, and mushrooms, topped with tomato sauce. It’s low-fat, delicious and filling.
Top Food #5: Tempeh
Looking for a low-fat meat substitute? Need something filling, but more textured than tofu? Try tempeh. Made from soybeans, and compacted into a dense “cake”, tempeh can be grilled, baked, added to soups, and layered on sandwiches. It has a natural nutty, buttery flavor that makes it a delicious and versatile alternative.
Soy isoflavones products are high in protein and free of saturated fat. They may reduce the risk of heart disease, and colon and prostate cancer.
These are just some of the amazing healthy foods that nature has to offer. You can satisfy your appetite without sacrificing taste with a little initiative and willingness to try delicious foods that offer rewarding nutritional benefits.
Of course, no health regimen would be complete without proper exercise, plenty of water throughout the day, and a good night’s rest.
Bon Appetit!
Sources:
http://www.bellybytes.com/articles/29foods.shtml
http://www.tempeh.info/health/health.php
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/avocado-advantage
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/health-foods/NU00632
Get a jump start on your personal weight loss program today.
